Philander (2-21) and Dale Steyn (2-10) then tore into the New Zealand top order and quickly had them in desperate trouble at seven for three.

Philander bowled Rob Nicol for one and had Brendon McCullum trapped in front for five while Steyn had Martin Guptill caught by Amla for one.

Ross Taylor made 17 in 72 balls as he and Williamson (41 not out) fougth gamely to get the Black Caps back on track but their partnership was broken shortly before stumps when Taylor was trapped in front by Steyn.

Daniel Vettori was yet to score when stumps were drawn.

The opening day saw New Zealand waste a promising start by losing five wickets with the score on 133, Philander and Steyn sharing seven wickets.

The three-match series is level at 0-0 after a rain-affected draw in the opening game in Dunedin.